Jan

Daryl Lee, GS ’11, Has Passed Away

Daryl Lee passed away on December 31st following a courageous battle with cancer. GS Dean of Students Scott Halverson sent out an email to GS students with a link to her obituary and details about the memorial service. Dean Halverson writes that Daryl, 47, was “an avid reader, excellent writer and loved to engage others in lively conversation.” Our hearts go out to Daryl’s friends and family during this difficult time.

You can find Dean Halverson’s full email below, and we remind you that Columbia offers several valuable resources to help cope with loss. It can be tough dealing with all of this on your own, and we encourage you to reach out.

Counseling and Psychological Services (212-854-2878) is open from 9-5 for the rest of this week.
Nightline Peer Counseling (212-854-7777) is closed for break but will reopen later this month
The GS Dean of Students Office may be reached at 212-854-2881.

We welcome you to leave your thoughts and prayers for Daryl and those close to her in the comments, but please be respectful.

Dear Students,

It is with great sadness that I must share with you the news of the passing of Ms. Daryl Lee, a GS student who first came to our community in the fall of 2007. On December 31, Daryl lost her brave struggle against cancer. I know that all of you join me in sending our deepest condolences to Daryl’s family, friends, and colleagues.

A full obituary and details of a memorial service for Daryl may be found here.

Whenever we lose someone within the Columbia community, we are all affected by it, whether or not we know the person well. Such a loss can bring about feelings of grief and may bring back memories of other painful losses. Please know that your academic advisor, the staff at Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS), and members of the Office of the University Chaplain are all available to provide you with any additional support you might need at this time. We have listed their contact information for you below.

I'm shocked and sad to hear this. Daryl and I were in the same class during my first year, and she seemed to have more spirit and energy than most of the other students in our class. I had no idea that she was in a battle with cancer at the same time. I regret dropping the class before truly getting to know her. RIP Daryl.

My condolesnes to the family. I have a close friend fighting cancer and it is hard for us both. I am sure that Daryl did her best in her fight against such a terrible disease that does not pick and choose and can attack anyone. RIP